A terminal and system for the automatic computerized unloading of
containerized cargo from container ships to trucks, railroad cars, other
ships and storage. The terminal system is equipped to store or transfer
unloaded cargo automatically by using independent container transfer
vehicles. The cargo ships are moored between quays of a terminal building
constructed in or adjacent to a waterway. Independent container transfer
vehicles on an overhead transverse beam system lift a container up and
away from a ship transfer to the elevated ground rail system without
changing orientation, and then shuttle on elevated ground conveyance rails
to other areas of the terminal to distribute the container to the
pertinent transportation system (railcar, truck, another ship, or
storage). Containers can also be unloaded from trucks and railroad cars
and transported to a berthed ship utilizing the same transportation
system. Remotely controlled docking modules may be used to guide an
incoming ship into the quay and to assist in engaging the ship's hull onto
a bow mooring assembly. Side fenders positioned in the quay moor the ship
and maintain its position within the dock during cargo transfers. A rapid
fueling system refuels the ships. The terminal can be located on land or
offshore in any navigable waterway with either an access tunnel or a
causeway for truck and rail access from land.
